An initiative by the McGrath Foundation, McGrath Breast Care Nurses meet patients at the time of screening and stay in close contact until recession.

“We become a part of someone’s life,” she said. “The goal is to be a guiding hand and familiar face for people going through a dark time.”

The Rouse Hill resident previously worked in the surgical side of breast cancer treatment as nurse at Westmead Hospital. She said crossing paths with McGrath Foundation nurses inspired her to change paths.

“I enjoyed listening to their stories and thought the impact they were having on people’s lives was amazing.

“I feel quite lucky that I get to be involved in the patients’ lives. There are tough times for sure, but it’s an incredibly rewarding experience.”

The only McGrath Breast Care Nurse working at Blacktown and Mount Druitt, Ms Rosano said her goal was to increase screening rates in the area.

“I love being able to reassure patients and families at a time when their lives have been turned upside down,” Ms Rosano said.

“It’s nice to see the relief on their faces when they realise they don’t have to navigate this on their own. But what’s better is to see them walk out the other side.”